Cable stacker, cable processing apparatus including the cable stacker, and method for smoothly conveying a cable

Abstract

The invention relates to a cable stacker 20 comprising a first belt conveyor 21 for conveying a cable along a conveying direction X, the first belt conveyor 21 being designed to receive a belt, the first belt conveyor 21 having a conveyor path with an input path section and an output path section. A main frame 23 is provided, on which the first belt conveyor 21 is arranged and for guiding the cable a counter barrier 40a is provided. The first belt conveyor 21 comprises in the region of the input path section a first drop barrier 31a for preventing the cable from slipping off the conveyor path 22 in an uncontrolled manner, the first drop barrier 31a being movable at least in an operating position relative to the counter barrier 40a.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cable stacker according to the independent claims, a cable processing device comprising the cable stacker, and a method for transporting a cable without interruption.

Background Art

[0002] A cable stacker is usually a stand-alone device and is typically arranged on a cable processing device. This type of cable stacker has a belt conveyor with a first conveyor roller and at least one other conveyor roller, and at least one of the two conveyor rollers is driven by a conveyor drive device. The belt is usually disposed on the conveyor roller, and when the belt conveyor operates, the processed cable is moved along the conveyor path.

[0003] U.S. Patent No. 4,793,759A discloses a cable stacker comprising a first belt conveyor for transporting a cable along a transport direction, the first belt conveyor having a conveyor path comprising an input path portion and an output path portion. A base frame is provided, the first belt conveyor is disposed on the base frame, and a counter barrier is provided for guiding the cable.

[0004] The disadvantage of this known solution is that the mechanism for dropping the cable from the conveyor path is highly likely to make mistakes in a cable processing process with high production frequency.

[0005] German Published Patent No. 102017202502A1 relates to a transport device for cables comprising a conveyor belt for transporting cable pieces. The conveyor comprises a side element that can move transversely to the transport direction on the conveyor belt for transporting the cable pieces controlled by the conveyor belt into a collecting flap.

[0006] The drawback of this known solution is that the mechanism for dropping the cable from the conveyor belt is too slow in the cable processing step with high production frequency.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0007]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved cable stacker that is free from at least one of the aforementioned drawbacks, in particular. The cable stacker is in particular modified to a large-capacity cable stacker because the depositing speed is increased and misplacement can also be reduced.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0009] This object is achieved by the features of the independent claims. Further advantageous developments are presented in the figures and the dependent claims.

[0010] The cable stacker according to the present invention includes a first belt conveyor for conveying a cable along a conveying direction. The first belt conveyor is suitable for receiving a belt, and the first belt conveyor has a conveyor path including an input path portion and an output path portion. Further, a main frame is provided, and the first belt conveyor is disposed on the main frame. A counter barrier is provided for guiding the cable. The first belt conveyor includes a first drop barrier for preventing the cable from slipping uncontrollably from the conveyor path in the area of the inlet path portion, and the first drop barrier can be moved at least to an operating position relative to the counter barrier.

[0011] The first drop barrier can move in a direction perpendicular to the counter barrier and / or in a horizontal direction with respect to the counter barrier. When the first drop barrier is in its operating position, the first drop barrier functions as an obstacle to the tip of the cable. In addition to guiding the cable, the counter barrier is also suitable for preventing the cable from slipping uncontrollably off the conveyor path. The tip of the cable cannot cross the drop barrier when the drop barrier is in its operating position along the conveying direction in the conveying process. In this way, it is possible to avoid the cable slipping uncontrollably off the conveyor path, so that the input speed can be increased and at the same time incorrect inputs can be reduced. The first drop barrier is arranged, for example, adjacent to the first conveyor roller of a belt conveyor. Further conveyor rollers can be arranged in the area of the output web part and can be actively driven or moved by a conveyor drive device.

[0012] The counter barrier is preferably arranged in the input path part of the conveyor path so as to be arranged on at least the opposite side of the first drop barrier on the cable stacker. Thereby, the guiding of the cable is further improved.

[0013] Preferably, the first drop barrier can move from its operating position to its non-operating position in a direction perpendicular to the conveying direction. The first drop barrier can be moved towards or away from the conveyor path, for example, (vertically) lowered or raised. Since the first drop barrier does not cross the conveyor path of the belt conveyor, the processed cable can be conveyed on the conveyor path without being hindered.

[0014] The first drop barrier can alternatively or additionally be movable along the conveying direction of the conveyor path. The first drop barrier can have a small and compact structure. The first drop barrier can be positioned along the conveying direction of the conveyor path on the cable stacker according to the cable length and / or the type of cable.

[0015] The first drop barrier with a drive device is preferably mechanically connected to at least one drive means for moving the first drop barrier. The drive means can be designed as an electric drive means so that the first drop barrier can be easily moved.

[0016] The drive device is preferably a pneumatic drive device comprising at least one pneumatic cylinder which is a drive means. Thereby, the first drop barrier can be easily moved from the operating position to the non-operating position.

[0017] This drive device preferably comprises a valve. The valve can be designed as a compressed air valve and can be, for example, part of a valve manifold. Using the valve, an electrical control signal can be easily converted to the compressed air level, so that the supply of compressed air to the pneumatic cylinder is reliably controlled.

[0018] A control device is provided, and the control device is preferably electrically connected to at least the drive device for exchanging control data. Thereby, the drive device can be reproducibly controlled. For example, the control device comprises a computing unit and is connected to a memory and / or a database for exchanging control data.

[0019] A sensor device is preferably provided such that at least the inoperative position of the first drop barrier can be detected using the sensor device. The sensor device recognizes the inoperative position of the first drop barrier and transfers the corresponding sensor data to the control device. The sensor data can be further processed in the computing unit of the control device. Alternatively or additionally, a sensor device is provided such that at least the operative position of the first drop barrier can be detected using the sensor device. The sensor device recognizes the operative position of the first drop barrier and transfers the corresponding sensor data to the control device. The sensor data is further processed in the computing unit of the control device and at least a control command for the first drop barrier can be formed. For this purpose, the sensor device is electrically connected to the control device so as to exchange sensor data.

[0020] The counter barrier is preferably movably arranged on the first belt conveyor. The counter barrier may be moved manually by the user or may be connected to an adjustment mechanism that moves the counter barrier by motor drive or pneumatically. In this way, for example, when a new belt is placed on the first belt conveyor in particular, the gap between the counter barrier and the conveyor path can be set so as to prevent clogging of the processed cables on the belt conveyor.

[0021] The first belt conveyor is preferably arranged on the main frame so as to be inclined with respect to the horizontal direction. Since the first belt conveyor is bent or inclined with respect to the conveying direction, the cable is less likely to slip off the conveyor path. The inclination is particularly between 1 degree and 15 degrees. The inclination is preferably 6 degrees. Thus, premature slipping of the cable can be prevented or slipping of the cable from the conveyor path in a desired controlled state is still possible.

[0022] A collection area for collecting cables is preferably provided, and the first drop barrier is preferably arranged adjacent to the collection area. Such processed cables that need to cross the first drop barrier can be stored in the collection area without any hindrance.

[0023] The collection area is preferably designed as a movable collection trough. The collection trough can be easily tilted using a pneumatic cylinder and can move, for example, from one end position (tilted upward) to the other end position (tilted downward). For example, a storage location for storing the processed cables can also be provided so that the processed cables are conveyed from the downwardly inclined collection trough to the storage location.

[0024] Preferably, a belt for transferring the cable along the conveying direction is arranged on the first belt conveyor. The belt can be easily and reproducibly positioned on the belt conveyor and fixed using a tension device.

[0025] The belt is preferably a flat belt. The flat belt does not have longitudinal side surfaces (or belt beads), has a simple structure, and has a lower manufacturing cost compared to a belt with longitudinal side surfaces. The flat belt can convey the processed cables more efficiently, especially because the support surface on the side opposite to the running surface of the flat belt, or the outer surface of the flat belt, has a structure with enhanced adhesion. The running surface of the flat belt is typically operably connected to at least one conveyor roller. Alternatively, the belt may be a toothed belt.

[0026] The movable protective cover is preferably arranged along the conveying direction of the first belt conveyor. The protective cover can be removed from the input path portion of the first belt conveyor so that the user can easily access the conveyor path. The protective cover is particularly pivotable. For this purpose, the protective cover can be connected to the main frame using a hinge and a snap-fastening mechanism and / or a spring mechanism with an integrated damper element (e.g., a gas-pressure spring), and the damper element fixes the expanded position and / or suppresses the force consumption during expansion or distributes the force more evenly over the entire movement.

[0027] The first belt conveyor is provided with at least one second drop barrier that prevents the cable from slipping uncontrollably off the conveyor path, and the second drop barrier is preferably movable to an operating position relative to the counter barrier. To further prevent the cable from slipping uncontrollably, the second drop barrier can be arranged adjacent to the first drop barrier.

[0028] Preferably, at least one fixing device is provided to fix at least the first drop barrier in the operating position. The fixing device comprises an independent mechanical, electrical, or magnetic fixing unit that prevents the first drop barrier from moving to the non-operating position of the first drop barrier, for example, by blocking the drive device of the first drop barrier or preventing the movement of the first drop barrier. The movable collecting trough can also function as a fixing device, thereby preventing the first anti-drop barrier from moving to the non-operating position when the movable collecting trough is tilted upward, for example.

[0029] The first belt conveyor preferably comprises a plurality of modular frames that can be connected to the main frame and thus be stable and held on the cable conveyor in a stationary form. Such modular frames can be produced in standardized sizes so that the conveyor path of the first belt conveyor can be individually adjusted or extended. Since the cable stacker with a modular structure also only has one single belt, one tensioning device, and at least one belt drive, it can do without additional conveyor rollers without significantly increasing production costs, so the customer's benefit is significantly increased.

[0030] In particular, since the modular frames can be separated from each other and / or from the main frame, modularity is improved and transportation and assembly before starting the cable stacker for the first time are simplified.

[0031] Preferably, at least one additional belt conveyor is provided that can be separated from the first belt conveyor for transferring the cable along the conveying direction. Since the first belt conveyor and the additional belt conveyor are suitable for receiving a single belt, the production cost does not increase significantly.

[0032] Preferably, a single flat belt is provided for transferring the cable along the conveying direction. The flat belt can be easily and reproducibly installed.

[0033] To prevent the cable from slipping uncontrollably off the conveyor path, at least one additional drop barrier is provided on one of the modular frames and / or on one of the other belt conveyors, and the additional drop barrier is preferably movable at least to the operating position relative to the counter barrier. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the cable from slipping uncontrollably off the conveyor path outside the input path portion.

[0034] At least one dropping device is provided for dropping a cable from at least one of the belt conveyors, and the dropping device is preferably electrically connected to the control device for exchanging control data. The dropping device enables controlled dropping and can be configured as a swivel arm or a linearly movable dropping arm so that the dropping device is arranged in a space-saving manner on the cable stacker.

[0035] The cable processing device of the present invention comprising at least one cable processing station, at least one cable processing instrument for processing the cable, and the cable stacker described herein includes at least one dropping device for dropping the cable from at least one belt conveyor, and the dropping device is arranged on the cable processing device or the cable stacker. Thus, at least one dropping device may be part of the cable processing apparatus or part of the cable stacker. For example, a gripper arranged at the cable processing station may be used as the dropping device and may be used for cable transfer between various processing stations and / or other functions. The gripper is arranged, for example, on a swivel arm having a vertical axis of rotation.

[0036] The dropping device is preferably connected to the control device of the cable stacker for exchanging control data. Thus, at least one dropping device can be installed or operated independently of the cable processing apparatus.

[0037] As an alternative, the cable stacker is electrically connected to the central control device of the cable processing device for exchanging control data, and at least one dropping device is connected to the central control device for exchanging control data. Since a separate control device for the cable stacker can be omitted, the manufacturing cost of the cable stacker is optimized.

[0038] The method of the present invention for transporting a cable smoothly on a cable stacker, wherein the cable stacker comprises at least a first belt conveyor and a first drop barrier, includes at least the following steps. a) Selecting at least one cable parameter; b) Moving the first drop barrier to an operating position relative to a counter barrier; c) Transporting the cable on the first belt conveyor.

[0039] Since the cable can be prevented from slipping uncontrollably off the conveyor path of the belt conveyor, the feeding speed can be increased, and at the same time, incorrect feeding can be reduced.

[0040] The cable parameters here refer not only to the type of cable (coaxial cable, multi-core cable, etc.), the geometry of the cable (structure, dimensions, cable length, etc.), but also to the overall structure of the processed cable, and thus the overall structure may also include cable connectors arranged on the cable. The cable stacker is, in particular, the cable stacker described here or a cable stacker that is part of the cable processing device described previously.

[0041] Preferably, at least one cable parameter is obtained from a database. Since the control device or the central control unit is connected to the database for exchanging cable parameters, it can access the already stored cable parameters, improving the initialization of the cable stacker before the start of production.

[0042] Preferably, at least one cable processing tool of the cable processing station is activated after step b). Therefore, since the cable processing can only start when the first drop barrier is in the operating position of the first drop barrier, incorrect placement on the cable stacker is further reduced. In particular, the cable processing tool of the cable processing station of the cable processing device described here is activated.

[0043] Preferably, after step c), a step of moving the first drop barrier to the inoperative position (step d) follows. Alternatively or additionally, after step d), the cable is dropped using a dropping device (step e)). Thereby, the cable can drop surely without being caught by the drop barrier.

[0044] Another cable stacker according to the present invention includes a first belt conveyor for conveying a cable along a conveying direction, and the first belt conveyor is suitable for receiving a belt. Further, a main frame is provided, the first belt conveyor is arranged on the main frame, and at least one guide element is provided. The first guide element can be arranged along the conveying direction of the cable to be conveyed. By the first guide element, the guiding of the cable in the input path portion when the cable drops is improved, thereby ensuring optimal placement quality. When the cable drops due to the pivoting movement of the dropping device, for example, is triggered, a horizontal meandering movement from the rear end of the cable to the front end of the cable is formed. The geometry of the meandering movement, for example, damped vibration, is preset by the dropping impact of the dropping device on the cable and the position of the first guide element, so that an undesired slipping of the cable is prevented. The position of the first guide element needs to be set according to the cable length or cable parameters, and the position of the first guide element for a short cable is different from the position of the first guide element for a long cable. In particular, the position of the first guide element for a thin cable is different from the position of the first guide element for a thick cable.

[0045] In the area of the first guide element, a sensor device with at least one sensor is provided for determining the first position of the guide element, and the sensor device is electrically connected to a control device or a central control device of the cable processing device. Since the sensor can detect the positioning error of the first guide element with respect to the conveyed cable, an undesired slippage of the cable is further prevented.

[0046] Alternatively or additionally, a drive device for moving the guide element is connected to the first guide element. The drive device enables an accurate and reproducible positioning of the first guide element on the cable stacker, in particular according to the cable to be attached. For this purpose, the drive device preferably comprises a spindle or a pneumatic cylinder. The spindle enables stepless positioning of the first guide element, and the pneumatic cylinder is a cost-effective variant of the drive device.

[0047] For example, an optical barrier, an inductive or magnetic sensor, or a switch can be used as the sensor. The sensor can detect the first position of the first guide element and interact with the detection element. Alternatively, the drive device may comprise a sensor, for example, by detecting the position of a pneumatic cylinder or the rotational movement of a spindle. The control device or the central control unit comprises a computing unit and is connected to a database for exchanging control data. The control data includes control commands for controlling the drive device of the first guide element. The computing unit has a program suitable for evaluating the sensor data, comparing the sensor data with, for example, preselected cable parameters of the cable to be attached, calculating the first position, and comparing it with a reference value from the database. For example, if the first position of the first guide element is different from the reference value, at least one warning is sent, and if necessary, the conveying operation of the belt conveyor is stopped or postponed. Otherwise, the first belt conveyor can start conveying the cable being processed or the cable to be attached.

[0048] The drive device for moving the guide element is preferably electrically connected to the control device so that the positioning can be accurately controlled and adjusted, in particular for short cables, long cables, thick cables, or thin cables.

[0049] As an alternative, the drive device is electrically connected to the central controller of the cable handling device. In this way, the central controller of the cable handling device can create and directly send control commands for moving the first guide element and, if necessary, stop the first belt conveyor. The drive device can comprise a pneumatic drive or an electric drive device.

[0050] A protective cover is provided, and the first guide element is preferably arranged on the protective cover. The first guide element can thus be removed integrally with the protective cover, enhancing the ease of access for the user to the conveyor belt. The protective cover is, for example, the protective cover as described above.

[0051] This protective cover is designed to be particularly movable, preferably tiltable, and houses fixing elements, damping elements, and / or spring elements. These fix the open position of the protective cover, suppress the consumption of force required to open the protective cover, and / or evenly distribute the consumption of force over the entire movement. This improves the ease of use for the user.

[0052] The method of the invention for transporting cables smoothly on the cable stacker described in this specification comprises the following steps. a) Moving the first guide element to a first position, wherein the first position is adapted to the cable length of the cable to be transported. b) Using a sensor device to check the first position of the first guide element. c) Transferring control data to a control device. d) Transporting the cable on the first belt conveyor.

[0053] This reduces incorrect loading within the cable stacker. When step b) is manually executed by the user, the confirmation in step c) reveals that the position measured by the sensor device does not match the required position. As a result, the belt conveyor stops and the user can receive a warning / error message.

[0054] In particular, prior to step a), at least one cable parameter of the cable is selected. The cable parameters here include not only the type of cable (coaxial cable, multi-core cable, etc.), the geometry of the cable (structure, dimensions, cable length, etc.), but also the overall structure of the processed cable, and thus the overall structure may also include the cable connectors arranged on the cable. The cable stacker is, in particular, the cable stacker described here or a cable stacker that is part of the cable processing device described previously.

[0055] Preferably, at least one cable parameter is obtained from a database. Since the control device or the central control unit is connected to the database to exchange cable parameters, it can access the already stored cable parameters, improving the initialization of the cable stacker before production starts.

[0056] In step b), the first guide element is preferably moved to a first position by the drive device. Thereby, the first guide element can be adjusted completely automatically.

[0057] The cable stacker according to the present invention comprises a first belt conveyor for conveying the cable along the conveying direction, the first belt conveyor being suitable for receiving the belt. Further, a main frame is provided, the first belt conveyor is arranged on the main frame, and a counter barrier is provided for guiding the cable. The counter barrier is movable relative to the conveying direction to set a gap with respect to the conveyor path of the first belt conveyor.

[0058] With a movable counter barrier, when the belt is placed on the first belt conveyor, the gap between the belt and the counter barrier can be set, so that undesirable jamming of the processed cable in this gap can be prevented. Thereby, incorrect loading in the cable stacker is reduced.

[0059] The counter barrier is preferably movable perpendicular to the conveying direction in order to set the horizontal gap between the first belt conveyor and the counter barrier in the vertical direction. Therefore, undesirable jamming of the processed cable in the horizontal gap can be prevented.

[0060] The counter barrier is alternatively or additionally movable perpendicular to the conveying direction in order to set the vertical gap between the first belt conveyor and the counter barrier in the horizontal direction. Therefore, undesirable jamming of the processed cable in the vertical gap can be prevented.

[0061] The belt is preferably designed as a flat belt. The flat belt has at least one transfer surface of the belt and at least one front surface of the belt. The flat belt does not have longitudinal side surfaces, has a simpler structure and lower production costs compared to a belt with longitudinal side surfaces. Such a flat belt is replaced by the user manually. The belt with longitudinal side surfaces has at least one stepped protrusion, and the front surface of the belt is arranged on the protrusion.

[0062] The counter barrier is preferably movable perpendicular to the transfer surface of the belt in order to set the horizontal gap between the first belt and the counter barrier in the vertical direction. Therefore, undesirable jamming of the processed cable in the horizontal gap can be prevented.

[0063] The counter barrier is alternatively or additionally vertically movable relative to the front surface of the belt to adjust the vertical gap between the belt and the counter barrier horizontally. Thus, unwanted jamming of the processed cable within the vertical gap can be prevented.

[0064] The counter barrier is preferably arranged in the input path portion of the conveyor path so as to be located on the opposite side of the collection area on the cable stacker. Thus, the guidance of the cable is further improved. The counter barrier extends in particular along the conveyor path of the belt conveyor.

[0065] The adjustment mechanism for moving the counter barrier is preferably arranged on the counter barrier so that the counter barrier can be easily adjusted relative to the belt conveyor.

[0066] Alternatively, the counter barrier is mechanically connected to an adjustment mechanism for moving the counter barrier. The adjustment mechanism can comprise a spindle drive device that can easily and steplessly adjust the first counter barrier.

[0067] This adjustment mechanism is preferably designed such that it cannot be adjusted during the conveying operation of the first belt conveyor. Thereby, unwanted adjustment of the counter barrier during operation can be prevented. For this purpose, the adjustment mechanism can be configured to be self-locking.

[0068] The adjustment mechanism preferably comprises an elongated hole and a fixing device. The adjustment mechanism is connected to the main frame of the cable stacker, for example, using at least one screw or bolt and a washer in the area of this elongated hole. The washer is designed, for example, as a ribbed washer or a wedge lock washer (Nord-Lock) so that the screw does not loosen under vibration. For each adjustment mechanism, several screws or bolts, washers, and elongated holes are provided. When the user slightly loosens the fixing device, the adjustment mechanism and the counter barrier attached to the adjustment mechanism move freely. As soon as the screw or bolt is fixed, the counter barrier is fixed and positioned independently relative to the main frame.

[0069] As an alternative to this or in addition to this, the adjustment mechanism can, for example, comprise a spindle or a screw with a large pitch and / or a fixing element such as a lock nut. A counter barrier equipped with such an adjustment mechanism can also be easily adjusted by an untrained user using a simple tool such as a torque wrench. As soon as the screw or bolt is fixed, the counter barrier is fixed and positioned independently relative to the main frame.

[0070] The adjustment mechanism preferably comprises an adjustment aid so that the desired gap between the belt conveyor or the belt and the opposing surface can be reproducibly adjusted. The adjustment aid can be motor-driven or pushed into the gap manually by the user. The counter barrier is then pushed towards the adjustment aid until the counter barrier, the adjustment aid, and the belt conveyor or the belt come into contact with each other. Before the test run, the adjustment aid is here pulled out of the gap or removed. In this way, a reproducible gap of the optimal size can be created at any time with little effort for belts from various manufacturers. If the belt is severely worn (reduction in thickness due to wear / abrasion), the adjustment process can also be repeated several times for the same belt.

[0071] The counter barrier preferably extends along the conveying path of the first belt conveyor so that the guiding of the cable on the belt conveyor over a longer conveying distance is reliably improved.

[0072] The method according to the invention for setting a gap on a cable stacker, in particular on the cable stacker described above, comprises at least the following steps. a) Placing a belt on the belt conveyor, b) Moving the counter barrier from a first position to another position in order to set a gap between the belt and the counter barrier.

[0073] With the movable counter barrier, when the belt is placed on the first belt conveyor, the gap between the belt and the counter barrier can be easily adjusted, so that an undesirable jamming of the processed cable in this gap is prevented. Thereby, incorrect loading at the cable stacker is reduced and the reliability of the operation is increased.

[0074] The adjustment aid is preferably arranged between the counter barrier and the belt before step b). In this way, a reproducible gap of optimal size can be created at any time with little effort for belts from various manufacturers. If the belt is severely worn (reduction in thickness due to wear / abrasion), the adjustment process can also be repeated several times with the same belt.

[0075] In order to prevent an undesirable jamming of the processed cable by using the adjustment aid, it is preferable that the adjustment aid between the counter barrier and the belt is removed after step b).

[0076] Another position of the counter barrier preferably varies depending on at least one cable parameter, in particular the diameter of the cable. The cable parameters here refer not only to the type of cable (coaxial cable, multi-core cable, etc.), the geometry of the cable (structure, dimensions, cable length, etc.), but also to the overall structure of the processed cable, which may include the cable connectors arranged on the cable.

[0077] The adjustment mechanism is connected to a control device, in particular for exchanging control data. Such an adjustment mechanism has a drive device with a drive for moving the counter barrier, and the drive can be reproducibly controlled by the control device, for example depending on cable parameters.

[0078] In particular, a sensor device is provided, and the sensor device can be used to identify the gap between the conveyor belt and the counter barrier. The sensor device comprises, for example, a distance sensor for detecting the distance between the belt and the first counter barrier, and transmits sensor data to the control device. The control device comprises a computing unit and is connected to a database for exchanging control data. The control data includes control commands for controlling the drive device of the counter barrier and / or control commands for controlling the conveyor rollers of the belt conveyor. The computing unit has a program suitable for evaluating the sensor data, calculating the width of the gap, and comparing the width of the gap with a reference value. If the width of the gap is too large for the cable to be processed, at least one warning is sent, and if necessary, the conveying operation of the belt conveyor is stopped or postponed. The sensor device is particularly configured to directly measure the width of the gap. The sensor device includes, for example, an imaging sensor such as a camera.

[0079] Further advantages, features, and details of the present invention can be obtained from the following description in which exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the drawings.

[0080] Similar to the technical content of the claims and the figures, the reference list is also part of this disclosure. The figures and embodiments are consistently and comprehensively described. The same reference signs indicate the same components, while reference signs with different subscripts indicate components that are functionally identical or similar. Enumerations such as first, second, etc. function only to distinguish between components.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0081]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0082] FIGS. 1 and 2 show a top view (X-Y plane, FIG. 1) and a side view (X-Z plane, FIG. 2) of a first embodiment of a cable processing device 90 with a cable stacker 20 according to the present invention. To better show the internal functional elements of the cable stacker 20, the protective cover 25 (seen in FIG. 3) is not shown. The cable processing stations 70, 71 and the control devices 29, 99 are shown only schematically, and hoses, control cables, and other details not relevant to the present invention are not shown.

[0083] The cable processing device 90 is designed as a swivel arm mechanism and consists of two swivel arms 60, 61 that move or swivel the two ends (not shown) of the cable 80 to their respective cable processing stations 70, 71. After being processed at the cable processing stations 70, 71, the cable 80 is conveyed to the cable stacker 20. The cable stacker is composed of a first belt conveyor 21 for conveying the cable 80 along the conveying direction X. The first belt conveyor 21 includes belts 211, two mating conveyor rollers or deflection rollers 213a, 213b, and a drive device 214 that actively rotates one of the two deflection rollers 213a. The drive device 214 has, for example, as a driving device, an electric motor equipped with an integrated speed reducer. The conveyor path 22 of the cable stacker 20 includes an input path portion 221 and an output path portion 222. The cable 80 is dropped by the dropping device 60 in the input path section 221. In this embodiment, the swivel arm of the cable processing device 90 undertakes the function of this dropping device 60.

[0084] As an alternative to this, the dropping device 60 may be a separate assembly arranged on the cable stacker 20. This is appropriate and also necessary in an alternative cable processing device (not shown) designed, for example, as a transfer machine or a rotary transfer machine.

[0085] The dropped cable 80 typically drops into a collection area 24 equipped with a tiltable collection trough 241 (Figure 3).

[0086] To prevent the cable 80 from accidentally and / or prematurely falling from the first belt conveyor 21, a fall barrier device 30 including a first fall barrier 31a and a first counter barrier 40 is provided at least in the input area 221. The first fall barrier 31a is used to prevent the cable 80 from slipping uncontrollably off the conveyor path 22, and the first fall barrier 31a is movable relative to the counter barrier 40a. The fall barrier device 30 is disposed within the area of the deflection roller 213b and moves passively with the belt 211.

[0087] To control all sensors and drive elements of the cable stacker 20, these are electrically connected to a control device 29. This control device 29 is part of the cable stacker 20 and is further connected to the central control unit 99 of the cable processing device 90.

[0088] As an alternative to this, the local control device 29 of the cable stacker 20 may be omitted. For this purpose, the control cables of all sensors and drive elements of the cable stacker 20 are directly and electrically connected to the central control unit 99 of the cable processing device 90.

[0089] FIG. 3 schematically shows a cross-sectional view along the section (A-A) of the cable stacker 20 of FIG. 2 with the processed cable 80 and the protective cover 25. The first fall barrier 31a is in a non-operating position, i.e., a passive position (downward), and the collection trough 241 is shown bent upward so that the fallen cable 80 can be stored within the collection trough 241. FIG. 4 shows an isometric cross-sectional view of the cable stacker 20, with the protective cover 25 and the cable 80 made invisible, but the first fall barrier 31a is in the operating position (upward) and the collection trough 241 is bent downward.

[0090] The first drop barrier 31a is moved by a drive device 32a. This drive device 32a consists of two pneumatic cylinders 321a, 321b (only visible in Figure 4) connected to a valve manifold 322 via a hose 323 (shown schematically in Figure 3). This valve manifold 322 is further electrically connected to control devices 29, 99 by a control cable 332. A sensor device 33 is provided to reliably detect the positions at both ends of the pneumatic cylinders 321a, 321b, i.e., when the drop barrier 31a reaches the operating position and the non - operating position. The sensor device typically consists of two sensors 331 for each pneumatic cylinder 321a (shown schematically in Figure 3) and the associated control cable 332 that also electrically connects the sensors 331 to the control devices 29, 99. These sensors 331 are designed as magnetic proximity switches and are fixed in grooves provided in the pneumatic cylinders 321a, 321b for this purpose. Alternatively, to save costs, only one sensor 331 for detecting the operating or non - operating position of the drop barrier 31a may be used for each of the pneumatic cylinders 321a, 321b.

[0091] To prevent unwanted drops from the belt conveyor 21 of the cable 80, the belt conveyor is inclined at an angle a, here 6°, with respect to the main frame 23 and the horizontal direction Y. The inclined coordinate system is identified by the letters Y’ and Z’ and is inclined by the angle a about the X - axis with respect to the normal coordinate system Y, Z (horizontal and vertical directions).

[0092] The counter barrier 40 also serves to prevent the cable 80 from dropping to the opposite side. The belt 211 designed as a flat belt 211f overlaps the counter barrier 40 in the width direction Y' of the belt, and there is a gap SZ in the Z' direction between the flat belt 211f and the counter barrier 40. As a result, (as shown in FIG. 8b), the lateral guidance of the flat belt 211f can be made unnecessary, and the width of the flat belt 211f does not need to have particularly accurate tolerances. Also, instead of an expensive belt 211w with longitudinal side surfaces (as shown in FIG. 8a), a simple and inexpensive flat belt 211f can be used. To prevent jamming of the cable 80 in this gap SZ by setting the gap SZ as small as possible, the counter barrier 40 can be adjusted in the vertical direction (i.e., the Z' direction) with respect to the flat belt 211f accurately, easily, and reproducibly using an adjustment mechanism 41 (details are schematically shown by block arrows in FIGS. 9a and 9b). Thereby, flat belts 211f of various thicknesses can be used, and such flat belts 211f can be procured under convenient conditions. The replacement of the flat belt 211f that is only partially worn (thinned due to signs of wear) can also be postponed a little by adjusting the gap SZ using the adjustment mechanism 41.

[0093] In an alternative embodiment of the cable stacker (FIGS. 9a, 9b), the counter barrier 40 with the associated adjustment mechanism 41 described here can also be described without a combination with the drop barrier 31 or the drop barrier device 30.

[0094] The flat belt 211f has a special surface condition that can particularly increase the friction coefficient with the cable 80 in the conveying direction X. Furthermore, the surface condition of the flat belt 211f is configured to touch the cable 80 as gently as possible on the one hand to keep wear and breakage as small as possible, thereby increasing the service life, and on the other hand, to avoid any damage to the cable 80.

[0095] The cable 80 moves in the direction of the collection area 24 (solid arrow) during a fall and then drops into the collection area 24 where the tiltable collection trough 241 is arranged. The tilting is here designed as a pneumatic cylinder and is furthermore performed by a drive device 242 which is connected by hoses, sensors, and control cables (not shown) to the valve manifold 322 and the control devices 29, 99. Typically, another trough (not shown) for the user to remove the cable is arranged below the tiltable collection trough 241.

[0096] The tiltable collection trough 241 comprises a fixing device 35. The fixing device 35 fixes the first drop barrier 31a in the inoperative position of the first drop barrier.

[0097] As an alternative (not shown), such a fixing device may be configured to fix the first drop barrier 31a in the operative position (upward). In an extended embodiment (not shown), the fixing device is designed such that the movement of the collection trough 241 is mechanically coupled to the movement of the drop barrier 31a, and thus only one drive device is required for both movements, i.e., the drive device 32a can be omitted and / or replaced by a simple passive force element (e.g., a spring).

[0098] To enhance user safety and prevent cable 80 from protruding beyond the collection area 24, a protective cover 25 is provided (shown schematically). The protective cover 25 typically includes a transparent area to allow the user to visually observe the process even when closed, and can be bent upward for maintenance purposes. The protective cover 25 is openable and closable using hinges for this purpose, and is equipped with a latching mechanism and / or spring mechanism that integrates damping elements (such as gas pressure springs, not shown) to fix the extended position and / or reduce the force consumption during extension or distribute the force more evenly throughout the movement. The protective cover 25 is preferably connected to the main frame 23. To further improve the quality of the arrangement, guide elements 50 are also preferably integrated into this protective cover 25 (Figure 9).

[0099] Figures 5a and 5b show detailed side views (X-Z plane) of the elements of the cable stacker 20 on the left side of section A-A (Figure 2), i.e., similar to Figures 3 and 4. In both figures, the processed cable 80 and the protective cover 25 are not shown, and the collection trough 241 is bent downward (as in Figure 3). In Figure 5a, the first drop barrier 31a is in the operating position (upward), and in Figure 5b, the first drop barrier 31a is in the non-operating position (downward, Figure 5b). The first drop barrier 31a is a long plate that can move in a direction perpendicular to the transport direction X (represented by the thick arrow in the Z direction) from the operating position to the non-operating position. Pneumatic cylinders 321a, 321b are arranged at opposite ends of the first drop barrier 31a and are connected to the main frame 23 to move the entire first drop barrier 31a uniformly. Guide grooves 311a, 311b, 311c are arranged on the first drop barrier 31a, and guide attachments 231a, 231b extend through the guide grooves.

[0100] A method for smoothly transferring the cable 80 on the cable stacker is shown using the example of the cable stacker 20 according to Figures 1 to 5b and includes at least the following steps. a) Selecting at least one cable parameter retrieved from a database; b) Moving the first drop barrier 31a to an operating position relative to the counter barrier 40; c) Conveying the cable 80 on the first belt conveyor 21.

[0101] The control device 29 or the central control device 99 is connected to the database to exchange cable parameters so as to be able to access the already stored cable parameters.

[0102] After step c), at least one cable processing tool of the cable processing station 70 for the rear end of the cable 80 is activated.

[0103] After conveying the cable on the first belt conveyor 21 (step c)), a step of moving the first drop barrier (31a) to a non-operating position (step d, Fig. 5b) follows, and then, or after all processing of the cable rear end is completed, a step of dropping the cable 80 using the dropping device 60, which is preferably integrated into the swivel arm for the cable processing station 70 at the rear end of the cable, follows (step e). Thereby, the cable drops surely without being caught by the drop barrier.

[0104] The movement of the first drop barrier (31a) to the non-operating position (step d, Fig. 5b) is performed before processing the rear end of the cable 80 at the cable processing station 70 (Fig. 1) provided for this purpose. Steps a) and b) are preferably executed in parallel with or simultaneously with the processing of the front end of the cable 80 at the cable processing station 71 provided for this purpose (Fig. 1). Since the steps are executed in parallel, the cycle time is saved.

[0105] Figures 6a and 6b show detailed side views (X-Z plane) of an alternative embodiment of a cable stacker 20a with an alternative drop barrier device 30a, one again with the drop barrier 31c shown in the actuated position (upper, FIG. 6a), and one shown in the non-actuated position (lower, FIG. 6b). The collection trough is not shown.

[0106] An alternative drive device 32b for the alternative drop barrier device 30a comprises a single pneumatic cylinder 321c that moves the alternative drop barrier 31c on one side. On the opposite side, the alternative drop barrier 31c is rotatably mounted, for example, by a sliding bearing 34. To prevent overdetermination and thereby maintain smooth movement, some play in the X direction is provided in the area of the sliding bearing 34, for example, by an elongated hole (not shown) in the drop barrier 31c. The drop barrier 31c is further fixed to the pneumatic cylinder 321c so as to allow for a small rotation about the Y' axis, either by a telescopic design or by the use of additional swivel joints (not shown).

[0107] Figures 7a and 7b show schematic side views (X-Z plane) of two further alternative embodiments of cable stackers 20b, 20c, which are here constructed in a modular design, one with a plurality of module frames 212 provided on a single belt conveyor 21d (cable stacker 20b, FIG. 7a), and one with a plurality of belt conveyors 21a, 21b, 21c and a plurality of drop barriers 31a, 31b. (cable stacker 20c, FIG. 7b).

[0108] The alternative cable stacker 20b according to FIG. 7a is composed of only a single belt conveyor 21d. The structure of this belt conveyor 21d is modular and includes three modular frames 212. This belt conveyor 21d accommodates only a single flat belt 211f and is provided with only a single drive device 214, two deflection rollers 213a, 214b, and a related tensioning system (not shown) for applying tension to the flat belt. The counter barrier 40a is also modular and has the same length as each modular frame 212.

[0109] The alternative cable stacker 20c according to FIG. 7b is composed of three belt conveyors 21a, 21b, 21c. All of these belt conveyors 21a, 21b, 21c use the same flat belt 211f and are provided with only a single drive device 214, two deflection rollers 213a, 214b, and a related tensioning system (not shown) for applying tension to the flat belt. The counter barrier 40a is also of modular design and has the same length as each belt conveyor 21a, 21b, 21c. In addition, the cable stacker 20c is provided with a second drop barrier 31b having a related drive device and sensor device (not shown) that is structurally and functionally identical to the first drop barrier 31a.

[0110] In both of the embodiments described above, in order to increase the length of the conveyor path, it is also possible to arrange two or more modules adjacent to each other.

[0111] Figures 8a and 8b show two further alternative embodiments of the cable stackers 20d, 20e, which are constructed substantially functionally and structurally similar to the cable stacker 20 according to FIGS. 1 to 5b described previously, and are provided with a counter barrier 41a of an alternative design. FIG. 8a shows a cable stacker 20d with a belt 211w having a longitudinal side, and FIG. 8b shows a cable stacker 20e with a flat belt 211f and a lateral guide 215. Cross-sectional views of both cable stackers in the Y-Z plane are merely schematically shown. This embodiment may be used in combination with at least an alternative of the drop barrier (FIGS. 6a and 6b) and / or in combination with a variant of the modular structure (FIGS. 7a and 7b).

[0112] In contrast to the embodiment of the cable stacker 20 with the flat belt 211f (FIG. 3), in the cable stacker 20d shown in FIG. 8a, a belt 211w with a longitudinal side is used. In this case, the conventional embodiments heretofore (prior art) are supplemented with a movable counter barrier 40a. This belt 211w with a longitudinal side is spaced from the counter barrier 40a in the Y' direction or a gap SY is formed there. Compared with the flat belt 211f, this type of belt with a longitudinal side 211w is somewhat more expensive, more difficult to obtain as it is only from a small number of manufacturers, more complex to assemble, and wears out faster.

[0113] The cable stacker 20e shown in FIG. 8b represents an embodiment in which the belt 211w with a longitudinal side is replaced by a flat belt 211f, but the counter barrier 40a is still configured in the same manner as the alternative cable stacker 20d in FIG. 8a. Again here, a gap SY is formed in the Y' direction, and in this case, since the longitudinal side no longer exists, there is a possibility that the cable 80 (not shown) may become clogged in the gap, which will cause confusion. To improve this problem, a lateral guide 215 is provided.

[0114] An adjustment mechanism 41a for the counter barrier 40a is arranged in two other embodiments of the cable stacker 20d (FIG. 8a) and the cable stacker 20e (FIG. 8b). This alternative adjustment mechanism 41a enables displacement of the counter barrier 40a in the Y' direction, thereby creating a gap SY between the belt front surface 2112 and the counter barrier 40a, while the adjustment mechanism 41 in the embodiment of the cable stacker 20 enables displacement of the counter barrier 40 in the Z' direction, thereby creating a gap SZ between the transfer surface 2111 of the belt and the counter barrier 40, which is different from the adjustment mechanism 41 of the embodiment of the cable stacker 20 according to FIG. 3.

[0115] FIGS. 9a to 9c show cross-sectional views in the Y-Z plane of another embodiment of a cable stacker 20f that does not have a drop barrier but has substantially the same functional and structural elements as the cable stacker according to FIGS. 1 to 5b. The cross-section is defined by the position of the screw 411 of the adjustment mechanism 41. Also shown are the elements of the adjustment mechanism 41 and the method of adjusting the desired gap SZ.

[0116] The body of the adjustment mechanism 41 is connected to the counter barrier 40 and is provided with at least one elongated hole 413 that enables adjustment / displacement in the Z' direction. The adjustment mechanism 41 is connected to the main frame 23 of the cable stacker 20f in the area of this elongated hole 413 using at least one screw 411, which is a fixing device, and one washer 412. The washer 412 is configured here, for example, as a ribbed washer or a wedge lock washer (Nord-Lock), so that the screw 411 does not loosen during vibration. For each adjustment mechanism 41, a plurality of screws 411, washers 412, and elongated holes 413 are provided (only one can be seen in this cross-sectional view). When the user slightly loosens all the screws 411 (Fig. 9a), the adjustment mechanism 41 and the counter barrier 40 attached to the adjustment mechanism can be freely moved in the Z' direction by the user, for example. The counter barrier 40 is fixed as soon as the screw 411 is tightened (Figs. 9a, 9b) and is clearly positioned relative to the main frame 23 and the remaining elements of the cable stacker 20f.

[0117] To set a desired gap SZ between the belt transfer surface 2111 of the flat belt 211f and the counter plane 40, the adjustment mechanism 41 is provided with an adjustment aid 414. For this purpose, first, all the screws 411 are slightly loosened, and the adjustment mechanism 41 with the counter barrier 40 is displaced so that the gap between the flat belt 211f and the counter barrier 40 is maximized. The adjustment aid 414 is preferably pushed by hand of the user into this gap (Fig. 9a). The counter barrier 40 is then pushed back in the opposite direction (arrow in the Z' direction) until the stop position, i.e., until the counter barrier 40, the adjustment aid 414, and the flat belt 211f are in contact with each other. Then, all the screws 411 are tightened again (arrow in the Y' direction).

[0118] The adjustment aid 414 is still in the proper position, but the position where the screw 411 has already been tightened is shown in Fig. 9b. The adjustment aid 414 is pulled out or removed (arrow in the Y' direction) before starting.

[0119] The position where the adjustment aid 414 is removed is shown in FIG. 9c. A gap SZ is formed between the belt transfer surface 2111 of the flat belt 211f and the counter barrier 40. The gap substantially matches the thickness of the adjustment aid 414 and is independent of the thickness of the flat belt 211f. Therefore, for flat belts 211f from various manufacturers, a reproducible gap SZ of an optimal size can be created at any time with little effort. When the flat belt 211f is severely worn (reduction in thickness due to wear / abrasion), the adjustment process can be repeated several times for the same flat belt 211f.

[0120] In a further alternative embodiment of the cable stacker described above, a sensor device is additionally provided, and the sensor device can be used to detect the gap between the belt and the counter barrier (not shown). The sensor device includes a distance sensor that detects the distance between the belt and the first counter barrier, and transmits sensor data to a control device. The control device includes a calculation unit and is connected to a database for exchanging control data. The control data includes control commands for controlling the drive device of the counter barrier and / or control commands for controlling the conveyor rollers of the belt conveyor. The calculation unit has a program suitable for evaluating the sensor data, calculating the width of the gap, and comparing the width of the gap with a reference value. The sensor device includes, for example, an imaging sensor such as a camera.

[0121] FIGS. 10(a - b) show a further embodiment of a cable stacker 20g having an actively movable guide element 50 disposed on the protective cover 25. This guide element 50 is here embodied as a sliding plate and functions to improve the guidance of the cable 80 (not shown) in the input path section 221 when dropping, thereby ensuring optimal input quality. The optimal position of this guide element 50 here varies depending on the cable length, which is a cable parameter.

[0122] The guide element 50 is thus configured to be displaceable in the X direction (represented by the thick arrow). In FIG. 10a, the guide element 50 is shown in a first position where the first guide element is positioned near the first deflection roller 213b, and in FIG. 10b, it is positioned in another position further away from the first deflection roller 213b.

[0123] To ensure that the user does not forget this displacement, it is beneficial to use a sensor device 52 to detect the position of the guide element 50 or a detection element 501 (e.g., a magnet) arranged on the guide element, and / or to use a drive device 51 to actively drive the movement of the guide element 50. Both are electrically connected to the control devices 29, 99 of the cable stacker 20 or the cable processing device 90. As an alternative to this, the detection element may be integrated into the drive device, preferably the cylinder piston of a pneumatic cylinder.

[0124] In a supplementary embodiment (not shown), this drive device 51 is designed as an electric drive shaft, and the sensor device 52 is designed as a rotary encoder or an absolute value encoder. Thus, the position of the guide element 50 can be actively adjusted, specifically steplessly or at any number of positions.

[0125] In a further embodiment (not shown), the drive device is omitted, and the sensor device is composed of at least one binary sensor for the position of the first guide element. If this position does not match the cable length currently being processed, the cable stacker or the drive device of the cable stacker, or the cable processing device or the drive device of the cable processing device stops, and the user is notified that it is necessary to move the guide element to the correct position.

[0126] In an extended embodiment (not shown), a plurality of sensors or absolute value encoders are installed, and in this case, the drive device can also be omitted.

[0127] The embodiment is schematically shown in FIGS. 10a and 10b and can be moved to two positions that can be actively driven. The drive device 51 is designed as a pneumatic cylinder and is connected via a hose 323 to the same valve manifold 322 as most of the other pneumatic cylinders of this cable stacker 20g. The sensor device 52 is composed of two binary sensors or limit switches and is arranged to transmit signals at the positions of the respective ends. The arrangement in the area of the guide element 50 is shown here.

[0128] As an alternative to this, the sensor device 52 can also be integrated in the area of the pneumatic cylinder, as shown as the drive device 32a in FIG. 3. Here too, the valve manifold 322 and the sensor device 52 are electrically connected to the control devices 29, 99 (not shown) via a control cable 332.

[0129] Instead of integrating the guide element 50 with the protective cover 25, the guide element may be attached to another element of the cable stacker. It is also possible to use a plurality of guide elements for each cable stacker.

[0130] The method of smoothly transporting the cable 80 on the cable stacker is shown using the example of the cable stacker 20g according to FIGS. 10a and 10b and includes at least a) moving a first guide element 50 to a first position, the first position being adapted to the cable length of the cable 80 to be transported; b) using the sensor device 52 to check the first position of the first guide element 50; c) transferring control data to the control devices 29, 99; d) transporting the cable on a first belt conveyor.

[0131] Before step a), at least one cable parameter of the cable can be selected, for example, from a database stored in the control devices 29, 99. The control device 29 or the central control device 99 is connected to the database in order to exchange cable parameters. The first guide element 50 is moved to the first position by the drive device 51 (step a).

Description of reference numerals

[0132] 20, 20a - g cable stacker, 21, 21a - d belt conveyor, 211 belt, 211f flat belt, 2111 belt transfer surface, 2112 belt front surface, 211W belt (belt bead) with longitudinal side surfaces, 212 modular frame, 213, 213a - b deflector roller (conveyor roller), 214 drive device (electric motor), 215 lateral guide, 22 conveyor path, 221 input path portion, 222 output path portion, 23 (main) frame, 231, 231a - b guide attachment, 24 collection area, 241 collection trough (inclined trough), 242 drive device (for 241), 25 protective cover, 29 control device, 30, 30a drop barrier device, 31 drop barrier, 31a - c drop barriers, 311, 311a - c guide grooves, 32, 32a - b drive devices, 321, 321a - c pneumatic cylinder, 322 valve (manifold), 323 hose, 33 sensor device, 331 sensor (for 31), 332 control cable, 34 sliding bearing, 35 fixing device, 40, 40a counter barrier, 41, 41a adjustment mechanism, 411 screw, 412 washer, 413 long hole, 414 adjustment aid, 50 (first) guide element (guide plate), 501 detection element (detection area), 51 drive device (for 50), 52 sensor device (for 50), 60 drop device (swing arm), 61 main swing device (swing arm), 70 cable processing station, 71 cable processing station, 80 (processed) cable, 90 cable processing device, 99 central control device, A cross - section, a inclination (s angle: s - angle), SY, SZ gap, X direction of (transport) of 80, Y direction (horizontal direction, intersecting with X direction), Y' direction (parallel to the belt, intersecting with X direction), Z direction (vertical direction), Z' direction (orthogonal to the belt, intersecting with X direction).

Claims

1. A cable stacker (20) comprising a first belt conveyor (21a) for conveying a cable (80) along a conveying direction (X), wherein the first belt conveyor (21a) is suitable for receiving a belt (211), and the first belt conveyor (21a) has a conveyor path (22) comprising an input path portion (221) for receiving the cable and an output path portion (222) for dropping the cable from the first belt conveyor (21a), a main frame (23) is provided, the first belt conveyor (21a) is arranged on the main frame (23), and a counter barrier (40a) is provided for guiding the cable (80). In the cable stacker (20), the first belt conveyor (21a) in the region of the input path portion (221) is provided with a first drop barrier (31a) for preventing the cable (80) from slipping uncontrollably off the conveyor path (22), and the first drop barrier (31a) can be moved at least between an operating position and a non-operating position relative to the counter barrier (40; 40a). The cable stacker (20) is characterized in that.

2. The cable stacker (20) according to claim 1, wherein the first drop barrier (31a) can move in a direction orthogonal to the conveying direction (X) from the operating position to the non-operating position, and / or can move along the conveying direction (X) of the conveyor path (22). The cable stacker (20) is characterized in that.

3. The cable stacker (20) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first drop barrier (31a) is mechanically connected to a drive device (32a) comprising at least one drive device for moving the first drop barrier (31a). The cable stacker (20) is characterized in that.

4. The cable stacker (20) according to claim 3, wherein the drive device (32a) is a pneumatic drive device comprising at least pneumatic cylinders (321a, 321b, 321c) and valves (322) as drive devices. The cable stacker (20) is characterized in that.

5. The cable stacker (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a sensor device (33) is provided, and at least the non-operating position and / or the operating position of the first drop barrier (31a) can be detected using the sensor device (33).

6. The cable stacker (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the counter barrier (40a) is movably arranged on the first belt conveyor (21a).

7. The cable stacker (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first belt conveyor (21a) is arranged obliquely with respect to the horizontal direction on the main frame (23), and the inclination (a) is between 1 degree and 15 degrees.

8. The cable stacker (20) according to claim 7, wherein the inclination (a) is 6 degrees.

9. The cable stacker (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein a collection area (24) for collecting the cable (80) is provided, the first drop barrier (31a) is arranged adjacent to the collection area (24), and the collection area (24) is designed as a movable collection trough (241).

10. The cable stacker (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least one fixing device (35) is provided, and the fixing device (35) fixes at least the first drop barrier (31a) in the operating position.

11. The cable stacker (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first belt conveyor (21a) comprises a plurality of module frames (212) that can be connected to the main frame (23), and the module frames (212) can be separated from each other and / or from the main frame (23).

12. A cable processing apparatus for processing the cable (80), and a cable processing apparatus (90) having a cable processing station (70, 71) comprising the cable stacker (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the cable processing apparatus (90) further has a dropping device (60) for dropping the cable (80) on at least one of the belt conveyors (21a, 21b, 21c) disposed on the cable processing apparatus (90) or the cable stacker (20), and the dropping device (60) is connected to the control device (29) of the cable stacker (20) for exchanging control data, or the cable stacker (20) is electrically connected to the central controller (99) of the cable processing apparatus (90) for exchanging control data. A cable processing apparatus (90) characterized by that.

13. A method for smoothly transporting a cable (80) on a cable stacker (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, or a cable stacker (20) which is a part of the cable processing apparatus (90) according to claim 12, wherein the cable stacker (20) comprises at least a first belt conveyor (21a) and a first dropping barrier (31a). a) A step of selecting at least one cable parameter, wherein the at least one cable parameter is obtained from a database. b) A step of moving the first dropping barrier (31a) to an operating position with respect to the counter barrier (40). c) A step of transporting the cable (80) on the first belt conveyor (21a). A method characterized by including.

14. The method according to claim 13, after step c), d) A step of moving the first dropping barrier (31a) to a non-operating position. e) A step of dropping the cable (80) into the collection area (24). A method characterized in that at least one of them is performed.

15. The cable stacker (20) according to claim 1, wherein the cable stacker (20) further comprises a guide element (50) and a sensor device (52) comprising at least one sensor for determining a first position of the guide element (50), and wherein the sensor device (52) is electrically connected to a control device (29, 99) and / or a drive device (51) for moving the guide element (50) is connected to the guide element (50).

16. The cable stacker (20) according to claim 1, wherein the counter barrier (40a) is movable in the conveying direction (X) in order to set gaps (SY, SZ) in the conveying path (22) of the first belt conveyor (21a).

17. The cable stacker (20) according to claim 16, wherein the counter barrier (40a) is movable perpendicular to the conveying direction (X) in order to set a horizontal gap (SZ) between the first belt conveyor (21a) and the counter barrier (40a) in the vertical direction.

Images